Marking 25 years in the fashion industry, Francis Libiran adds an opulent touch to menswear through detailed beadwork and metallic fabrics
Celebrating a quarter-century of sartorial brilliance, Francis Libiran, renowned for his intricate gowns, transcends into the realm of menswear for his 25th anniversary collection. Within the simplicity of five carefully curated men’s ensembles, Libiran ensures that each symbolizes passion and creativity.
In an exclusive interview with MEGA Man, the Filipino designer unravels the inspiration behind his newest creations, revealing his plans to soar even higher next year.
RELATED: Francis Libiran’s 25th Anniversary Collection Navigates the Flight of the Phoenix
Tailored flames
With a deliberate strategy to captivate, Francis curated his menswear line by skillfully intertwining various materials, techniques, and textures. The brocade, boasting dual shades of gold and black, served as a canvas for his phoenix-inspired embellishments, adding a statement design along the garment’s back. Another striking ensemble featured champagne-hued netting adorned with beads that shimmered like flames, invoking the majestic allure of the mythical phoenix.
Among the impressive menswear looks was a piece covered with a crystal mirror design, capturing attention with its mesmerizing play of reflections under light. Another showstopper unveiled by the designer is a sleek, form-fitting black suit, elevated through intricate red beaded detailing. Through these refined pieces, the designer masterfully illustrates that sometimes, in the field of style, less undeniably becomes more.
Crowning glory
Adding an intriguing touch to the ensembles, each look boasted exaggerated hats that caught the eye. When asked about the inspiration, Libiran shared his desire to break free from the typical menswear seen in the Philippines. “If you see menswear in the Philippines, it’s not highlighted that much.” The hats, he explained, are a detail crafted to radiate masculinity with a distinctive twist.
Burning ambition
Concluding the spectacle on a triumphant note, Francis Libiran earned a standing ovation from the audience. Looking ahead, the designer shared with MEGA Man his commitment to soar even higher, pushing both himself and his brand to new limits. For the next chapter, he envisions a blazing trail into retail, aiming to make his fashion more accessible and intimately linked with the Filipino spirit. “We saw the potential of doing retail, so that’s the direction of the brand for next year,” Libiran shared.
Photography by ERRON OCAMPO and ED SIMON
Special thanks to FRANCIS LIBIRAN and HARTMAN COMMUNICATIONS
